What to Look For When Apartment Hunting in Boston
Photo Credit: The Fenway & Back Bay Portfolio
You probably have a laundry list of “must haves” when searching for your next apartment in Boston – from large windows, an updated kitchen, plenty of closet space, and so on. While all of these perks are wonderful to have in your next home, don’t overlook a few odds and ends that will ultimately help you make your final decision on where to apply. Follow along as we check off the top tips to keep in mind when searching for your next apartment!
Historic Boston Apartments at The Parkside
Enjoy studios, one, two, three or four bedroom apartments in Boston. Contact us today for a tour of The Parkside.
Where to Live in Boston
Whether you’re a newcomer to the area or have lived in a variety of Boston’s neighborhoods, the first step of your apartment hunt is deciding where to live. Here are a few things to consider:
- Mind your commute to work, school, and main points of interest
- Public transportation and healthcare options
- Proximity to family and friends
If you’d like to stay in the heart of historic downtown Boston near colleges, eateries, and world-class museums, consider Forest Properties’ updated community: The Fenway & Back Bay Portfolio!
Photo Credit: The Fenway & Back Bay Portfolio
Decide On Size
Before you begin your apartment hunt, think about which type of apartment floor plan best suits your needs and lifestyle. Are you moving into your first apartment by yourself? Consider a studio or one bedroom. If you’re moving with your significant other, are planning to get a roommate, or are relocating with a pet, perhaps a two bedroom unit would be the best option for additional space.
A Realtor’s Tip: Apartments with a patio or balcony give the feel of having additional living space.
What’s Included?
Once you decide on the floor plan you’d like to check out, ask your leasing consultant what amenities are included in the monthly rent. If only a few are included, give yourself additional budget to cover the following expenses:
- Gas and electric
- Heat and hot water
- Trash removal
- Cable and Internet services
A great way to help yourself plan is to ask the leasing consultant and current tenants what the usual monthly expenses are for the above services. Don’t forget to budget for groceries, too!
Photo Credit: Flickr.com
Know What to Ask Your Leasing Consultant
You’ve toured available units within Forest Properties’ Barclay on Beacon and Cloverleaf Apartments, and now it’s time to make a decision! Before you grab a pen and sign the lease for your perfect apartment, there are a few questions worth discussing with your leasing consultant or property manager.
- What date is rent due, is there a set grace period to pay it, and how should payment be submitted?
- Is renters’ insurance required?
- How many parking spaces are distributed?
- Are additional storage options offered? (stay on top of all your stuff with our decluttering tips!)
- What are the terms for property managers and maintenance teams to enter my apartment?
- Who can I call for emergency repairs?
- Are pets allowed? Are there weight/breed restrictions?
- What changes can I make to the interior of the apartment? (removable wallpaper is a perfect alternative to painting – no glue, no damage, and it peels right off!)
So, as you explore the city of Boston and schedule apartment tours, keep these tips in mind to help yourself narrow down options. We promise there’s an apartment out there for you, so check out the latest listings! Happy apartment hunting!
Posted in Boston Metro | Tagged apartment hunting tips • boston apartments • what to look for when apartment hunting in boston
